Kubernetes Secrets offer a mechanism for managing sensitive data such as passwords and API keys without embedding them in application code, providing operational benefits by allowing clean separation of credentials and integration with the Kubernetes ecosystem. However, they present significant security challenges because they are stored unencrypted in etcd by default, making them accessible to anyone with API access. This default behavior necessitates additional security measures, such as encrypting data at rest, implementing granular RBAC policies, and potentially using external secret management tools for enhanced protection. The security of Kubernetes Secrets hinges on proper configuration and the use of best practices, such as least-privilege access control and secret rotation strategies, to mitigate risks associated with their misuse. Organizations must understand the limitations of Kubernetes Secrets and incorporate additional safeguards to ensure secure management of credentials, especially in production environments where the stakes are high.